Report: Facebook Planning Ads In Messenger

[engine]

I'm one of those FB users that never installed Messenger, and i'll continue to resist, however, I know many people that do use it. I'm not sure how they will appreciate ads appearing, however, i remain of the view that it has to be supported somehow, so, they should know you don't get something for nothing.

A leaked document Facebook sent to some of its biggest advertisers reveals that Facebook will launch ads within Messenger in Q2 2016.

The document, obtained by TechCrunch but kept private to protect its verified source, says businesses will be able to send ads as messages to people who previously initiated a chat thread with that company. To prepare, the document recommends that businesses get consumers to start message threads with them now so they’ll be able to send them ads when the feature launches.

The document also notes that Facebook has quietly launched a URL short link fb.com/msg/ that instantly opens a chat thread with a business. Report: Facebook Planning Ads In Messenger [techcrunch.com]

[tangor]

The threat of ads might also provide impetus to a paid AD FREE version. Wonder if that avenue will also appear?

[engine]

That's an interesting alternative, tangor, and might attract some people, but can it ever be more than a small charge. I guess it depends on how intrusive the ads are going to be. Ad blindness does kick in after a while, too.
For an advertiser, they just want to get to the audience, so wouldn't be so keen on a subscription model.

I'll still give Messenger a miss.

[Selen]

It seems Facebook's motto is: "Do it quietly before the public finds out and revolts."

[bill]

Yet another impetus never to install this app. Although I see the draw for the average user to buy into the FB ecosystem I just think this gives them too much access to your private data. Having them try to monetize this with adds is just another straw on the camel's back for me.